Long-term P2G and hydrogen potential in an integrated energy system: coupling of power grid and mobility in Italy

This work analyses future high-RES energy scenarios at country scale, focusing on the interaction between the power grid and the mobility sector, where Power-to-Gas (P2G) is a key technology. A multi-node model is developed to represent the energy system, including additional load form plug-in electric vehicles and clean hydrogen generation from excess electricity (P2G) for fuel cell vehicles. Energy from RES is prioritised, either covering the load or feeding the storage. Italy is investigated as case study, considering the possible evolution up to 2030 and 2050. The simulations of the Italian energy system behaviour in 2050 yield a maximum of 57% RES share in the electricity mix, while biomass could account for a further 5%. The introduction of P2G technology results in a good exploitation of excess energy, thus increasing the overall RES share. High coverage of hydrogen mobility demand (about 81%) is achieved in presence of large installation of RES plants; however, the e-RES share stays far from the high targets proposed.